Project management vs. Program management

Is it just a matter of semantics or is there really a fundamental difference between the two? Program Management, to me, is far more then managing a group of related Projects. To me, Program Management starts with a clear definition of business requirements at a strategic level and from there develops into a roadmap, or Program, as to how best satisfy the business needs. Thoughts?

Hi Joe,
That is also my understanding as well. A 'Program' is a strategic goal/s that could be made up of a number of projects, or, could be addressed with one single project. In the case of a single project used to address the Program objectives, then I guess the two terms could be interchangeable.

That is my understanding as well. A ‘Program’ is a strategic goal/s that could be made up of a number of 'projects', or, could be addressed with one single project. In the case of a single project addressing 'Program' objectives, then I guess the two terms could be interchangeable.

Agree, in the Program Management Standard, a program is a series of project and non-project work (don't know what else there is) that aligns with a business case supporting the organization strategic initiative. 3 main areas support the program: 1) Governance, 2) Stakeholder Management, 3) Benefits Realization.

I agree with the thread as far as the 'correct' definition, but
unfortunately as I and I'm sure
everybody else in this thread is aware the definition doesn't always
match reality.

In many cases related projects are grouped and this can be assigned to a
person holding
the title Project Manager or Program Manager. Too often the title (and
the perspective)
is assigned by virtue of the number of resources and/or projects being
executed. Worse
as a political convention to alleviate personnel conflicts. This causes
confusion on both
sides of the fence: business & technical. This in turn makes it harder
to track and report
on progress which finally gives us some of the black eyes at up the
chain to include the
C-Level.

While it is widely taught that communication is integral to Program and
Project
management too often the educational aspect of that falls by the way.

Others may disagree but the cliche that "perception is reality" holds
true and this
fuzzy use of terms impacts us all.